Be a Writing Machine

Your subconscious has all the tools is needs to tell a story; it just needs permission to use them. Reading is how you do that. I agree with Dean on this, and I have found it to be true for me.

Dean Wesley Smith, one of the most prolific writers writing today,

It would be impossible to imagine a musician who doesn't listen to music, a painter who doesn't study paintings, or an actor who doesn't watch plays. Just as those artists study their craft, so too must writers.

Reading fills the creative well because it gives the subconscious reference points for characters, story, and dialogue.

Freewriting is useful in other ways too. Some people use it to get inside the head of their characters. Others use it to clear out their minds prior to writing—an active meditation of the hands, if you will.
Personally, I find freewriting to be most helpful in fighting fear. I don't find it to helpful in finding inspiration, but that's just me.
I went through a period where I freewrote every day. I don't recommend that. Otherwise, it will become a crutch. Use it only as needed.

and Change Direction in Your Story

Don’t check Facebook. Don’t watch Netflix. Don’t go out to clubs, or the bar, or whatever you like to do. Don’t do it.

Drop off the grid and don’t communicate with friends and family. Let only your closest loved ones know where and when to find you.

Mark the Anniversaries of Your Books

Keep an idea log. It’s a daily action that will help you when you don’t know what to write next